While the number decreases with age, approximately how many taste buds does an average human have at birth?

• A. About 100,000
• B. About 10,000
• C. About 1,000
• D. About 500

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of taste buds: Taste buds are sensory organs located on the tongue, soft palate, and other areas of the mouth. They contain taste receptor cells that help detect different flavors.
2. Recognize that the number of taste buds varies with age: Humans are born with a higher number of taste buds, which gradually decrease as they age due to natural wear and changes in the body.
3. Identify the approximate number of taste buds at birth: Research and studies in biology indicate that newborns typically have around 10,000 taste buds, which is the highest number they will have in their lifetime.
4. Compare the options provided in the question: The options include 100,000, 10,000, 1,000, and 500. Based on biological knowledge, the correct estimate for taste buds at birth is closest to 10,000.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is 'About 10,000,' as this aligns with scientific understanding of the number of taste buds in newborns.